02/17/1986 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e e e Mr. Holmer initiated a discussion of the process by which the council will determine the City positions which will be discussed with the congressional delegation in Washington. Mayor Obie responded that the council will consider a recommendation from the Legislative Subcommittee. Ms. Schue said the council will be asked to take a position on one item on which the subcommittee did not agree. Mr. Holmer wondered if councilors have to agree with every staff and committee recommendation. He asked if disagreement about one item will exclude a councilor from representing the City in Washington. He said he understands that a councilor should not make an overt scene in a congressional office. Mayor Obie said official representatives of the City should support official policy. Ms. Ehrman said official representatives should, at least, not argue against official policy. Mr. Holmer added, "not argue against it overtly at that point." Mayor Obie added that a councilor should not argue against official policy "with a council uniform on." Mayor Obie suggested a policy should be drafted about how and when a councilor represents the council. Mr. Holmer and Ms. Schue said they will draft one. Ms. Schue asked if the writing of letters to the editor should be included in the policy. Mayor Obie requested this issue be included in the policy as well. G. City Boards and Commissions Reappointment Policy Mayor Obie suggested the councilors discuss the following statement: Concerning reappointment to a City board or commission, the Mayor and City Council appreciate the commitment of applicants who are willing to serve a second term on a City board or commission and will consider the reappointment of these individuals prior to consideration of other applicants. Most councilors had reviewed the statement in advance of the meeting and had submitted written comments previously. Ms. Ehrman said several appointments or reappointments have been controversial recently. She understood the proposal is to include a statement on the appli- cation form so that people will know that reappointments might be made. She understood that the Neighborhood Leaders have received comments from people who wished they had known that reappointments would be considered. Ms. Schue said he did not want to establish a reappointment policy because each case is different. She said a third term for a person benefits the City sometimes, and sometimes one term is enough. Mr. Rutan agreed with Ms. Schue. Mr. Holmer agreed with Ms. Schue and Mr. Rutan. Mr. Miller said he agreed with them because the proposal could restrict the council. He said it is not fair to solicit applications from others if the incumbent will be reappointed. He suggested people be told that incumbents will be interviewed. Ms. Ehrman said people who reapply are not MINUTES--Eugene City Council February 17, 1986 Page 8